Chiropractor for Spondylolysis Treatment in Carrollton, TX
Spondylolysis is a condition that involves a defect or stress fracture in a specific part of a vertebra, typically in the lower spine (lumbar region). This defect occurs in a region called the pars interarticularis, which is a thin bone segment that connects the upper and lower facets of the vertebra. The condition is often referred to as a "pars defect" or "pars fracture." This is most common in athletes such as gymnasts, football players, cheerleaders and dancers that are exposed to repetitive extension and hyperextension of the lumbar spine. The repetitive nature causes the bone to fatigue and weaken, usually resulting in a stress reaction, which leads into a stress fracture if it does not heal. This is typically a precursor to Spondylolysthesis.
Key Points About Spondylolysis:
Common in younger individuals: Spondylolysis is often seen in athletes, especially those involved in sports that require repetitive hyperextension of the spine (like gymnastics, football, cheerleading, dancing or weightlifting).
Symptoms: Many people with spondylolysis may not experience symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to lower back pain, especially after activity or physical exertion. Pain may be localized to the lower back or spread to the hips or legs.
Causes: The condition can be caused by repetitive stress or overuse, leading to small fractures in the pars interarticularis. In some cases, it may also be congenital, meaning a person is born with a weakness in this part of the vertebra.
Diagnosis: It is typically diagnosed through imaging studies like X-rays (when it has fractured all the way through), MRI, or CT scans. In some cases, a single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan may be used to detect the stress fracture.
Symptoms of Low Back Pain:
The symptoms of low back pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. They may include:
Localized pain: Pain directly in the lower back, which can be dull, sharp, or throbbing.
Radiating pain: Pain that extends into the hips, buttocks, or legs (e.g., sciatica). This is common in cases of a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
Stiffness: Difficulty moving or bending the back due to tight muscles or inflammation.
Numbness or tingling: In some cases, nerve compression can cause numbness or tingling in the legs or feet.
Weakness: Muscle weakness or a feeling of "giving way" in the legs, which can be caused by nerve irritation or compression.
Difficulty standing or sitting for long periods: Prolonged sitting or standing may exacerbate the pain, leading to discomfort or a need to change positions frequently.
How can Chiropractic Care help with pain associated with Spondylolysis?
At Elevation, we utilize a wide variety of techniques and treatments to improve symptoms related to Spondylolysis. Depending on the severity and stage of the Spondylosis and location can result in different treatment programs. At Elevation, our goal is to reduce symptoms and pain associated with the stress reaction or stress fracture and then stabilize the muscle tissue around it with strengthening exercises. It's not a one-size fits all situation because each patient with this is treated different and each person may present with unique compensation patterns that amplify symptoms. We utilize different soft tissue treatments such as manual therapy, dry needling, IASTM, cupping, and shockwave therapy. We also use specific spinal manipulation or adjusting that do not threaten the stress reaction or stress fracture to improve range of motion and mobility through the spine effectively. We usually teach a progression of advanced rehabilitation and strengthening exercises for the low back and surrounding regions as well to help ease and reduce symptoms long-term.
TESTIMONIALS
Joe G.
If you are looking for an excellent Chiropractor, as well as a specialist in Sports Medicine, physical therapy, dry needling, cupping, flexibility and so much more - this is the place to go. Dr. Ackerman is so knowledgeable and really cares about his patients. Great place and always a great experience.
